Mariners Prospect No. 13: Stephen Pryor

Stephen Pryor, RHP, Jackson Generals (AA, 24.1 years old on average in 2011)

6-6, 225 lbs, 22 years old

Bats: Right, Throws: Right

Acquired: 2010 Amateur Draft (5th round)

ETA: Mid-2012

When the Mariners drafted Stephen Pryor, he was considered a high-ceiling, high-probability of success arm. He’s got a fastball that sits in the mid-90s, touching the high-90s on occasion. He’s got an acceptable slider, but his bread will be buttered with the heat. Pryor is a two-pitch pitcher also, so he’s probably best suited for high-leverage, short outings. His profile spells future closer, but presently his command doesn’t point him in the direction of success. At Jackson, in the second half of the season, Pryor rehabbed his prospect status. After averaging almost a walk per inning at High Desert, he dropped his walks three fold, and boasted a dominant .706 WHIP thanks to only 2.8 BB/9 and 3.6 H/9. Much of his success at Clinton can be attributed to an unsustainable .184 BABIP against him, as much as his struggles in High Desert were hurt by a .371 BABIP. Pryor may have made some tangible progress mechanically, which led to improved production, and if he has, he’ll have a quick ascent to the bigs. Pryor has a top-closer ceiling and a Dan Cortes floor.